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Most burglars break into a home through one of the entry doors. Why? Because most of the time it’s the easiest way into a home. You’d think it’d be the windows since they’re all glass, but they are messy, dangerous, and a tighter squeeze. Entry doors are, surprisingly, an easy way into a home.

Why is that, you ask, and how can I increase the security of entry doors I install for my clients? Read on. We’ve got you covered.

Why burglars are drawn to entry doors

You have a lock and potentially a deadbolt on the front door. Why would burglars target that door opposed to a window?

Knock on a door. Does it sound hollow? Many installed entry doors are thin and hollow and easily shattered when excess force is applied.

The frame is usually the weakest point of a door and the portion that is targeted when a burglar attacks. Most of the time the lock extends a few inches into the frame. If not installed properly and reinforced, it will shatter with a swift kick.

Consider installing more sturdy doors

Don’t skimp on the doors that you are installing. Solid oak or even a thick metal will provide far more safety and security than a hollow composite. Encouraging the homeowner to opt for a thicker, heavier material will offer more protection, and will enable the installation of a heavier deadbolt or security system.

Bushes are not your friend

Those rose bushes look great when in full bloom, but they may be obscuring the view of the front door, giving anyone that might be trying to break in cover from those driving by. Have the conversation with the homeowner and suggest a change of scenery. As a contractor, this might not be something you handle, but hopefully, it’s a tip the homeowner will appreciate.

Avoid windowed entry doors

The sun spilling in through glass panes sounds nice when the kids are playing in the yard and your homeowner wants to be able to keep an eye on them, but they can compromise entry door security completely by allowing someone to break the material and just flip the locks themselves. If your homeowner still decides they still want windowed entry doors, opt for tempered glass, or better yet keep the windows high on the door.

Finally, reinforce what can’t be seen!

The shrubs are cut, the door is replaced with a thick, beautifully finished oak… now what? If entry doors are imposing and appear solid, it will deter all but the most determined burglar, but what about someone that wants to put your home to the test? A well-placed kick can still undo all your hard work, so we recommend reinforcing the bones of your entry doors.

The simplest fix is to switch out the screw securing the strike plate. A longer screw makes it more leads to more durability and security.

Rotted frames compromise the integrity of the door, making them easy targets for burglars. Take steps to prevent frame rot by installing FrameSaver® Rot-Proof Door Frame.

Select a multi-point locking system that will stand up to forced entry. Most locking points have a single area where it is attached to the door and interacts with the door jamb. Consider upgrading the lock to include more points of contact to further reinforce them.

Select a door handle that is secure and can’t be tampered with. Luckily, we have a few we recommend that won’t compromise looks for security.

Interested in learning more about how a multi-point locking system can reinforce the entry doors you’re installing? Check out this post!

ABOUT ENDURA

Endura is built on innovation and a commitment to delivering high performance. Our products are problem solvers, born directly from insight we’ve learned from our customers about real-world challenges that you face every day. We’re always pushing ourselves to face the ever-present challenge: How can we make your door system work better?